Formulating Reed Diffusers: Alcohol-Based vs. Alcohol-Free Comparison

For making a reed diffuser to use in the bedroom and bathroom, here are the differences between the two formulas and the recommended ingredients:

Comparison of Formulas

1. Alcohol-Free Formula:
   • Pros: The scent lasts longer because it evaporates slowly. It doesn't have a sharp alcohol smell, making it more pleasant for small spaces like bedrooms. It is also non-flammable and safer.
   • Cons: The scent may spread more slowly initially compared to alcohol-based formulas.
2. Alcohol-Based Formula:
   • Pros: The scent spreads very quickly and strongly. It is effective for neutralizing odors rapidly.
   • Cons: It evaporates quickly, so the liquid runs out faster. It has a distinct alcohol odor and is flammable.

Recommended Ingredients

To create a high-quality reed diffuser, I recommend the following components:

1. Reed Diffuser Base (Type 1): A ready-to-use, alcohol-free base. It is odorless, so it won't distort your fragrance, and it helps the scent diffuse steadily.
2. Fragrance Oil or Essential Oil: Choose your preferred scent.
3. Sugar Fix™: A fragrance fixative that helps the scent last longer and reduces the evaporation rate of the fragrance.
4. Ethyl Alcohol (99.5%): (Optional) Only needed if you find that your chosen fragrance oil does not mix well with the base (separation). Mixing the oil with a small amount of alcohol first can help it dissolve.

Suggested Mixing Ratio

• Fragrance Oil: 25-30%
• Reed Diffuser Base (Type 1): 70-75%
• Sugar Fix™: 1-5% (to help the scent last longer)

Instructions:

1. Mix the Fragrance Oil with Sugar Fix™.
2. Add the Reed Diffuser Base (Type 1) and stir until clear.
3. If the mixture is cloudy or separates, add a small amount of Ethyl Alcohol until it becomes clear.
4. Pour into a glass bottle and insert the reed sticks.

For the bedroom, the alcohol-free formula is highly recommended for a soft, long-lasting aroma. For the bathroom, you can use the same formula or add a bit of alcohol if you want a stronger scent burst to mask odors.